Midweek Takeaway: Chalk and cheese on menu in Doncaster Rovers' incredible comeback win over Blackpool

One of the worst first half performances of the Darren Moore era.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

But then a stunning comeback for a notable win over the on-form side in League One.

Painting a picture of Doncaster Rovers’ 3-2 triumph over Blackpool is far from a simple task.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Perhaps only one phrase could possibly sum up the evening from a Rovers perspective.

Cameron John attempts to weave into the box. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIXCameron John attempts to weave into the box. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIX
Cameron John attempts to weave into the box. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIX

Chalk and cheese.

In the first half they were architects of their own downfall. It did not take the opposition to unsettle or stifle them - Rovers did that to themselves with slow and ponderous possession play lacking in ideas and direction.

They were simply unrecognisable.

And they looked set for a long night after Doncaster lad Jerry Yates fired home from the spot after Brad Halliday had been adjudged to have fouled Gary Madine.

It got worse when Rovers were were scythed open on the break, with CJ Hamilton finishing off after Sully Kaikai's clear run from half way.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Anything other than a disappointing defeat could not be predicted at half time.

But that was not taking into account the trend of Rovers improving after a half time reset.

By all accounts Darren Moore was much more blunt and forthright than usual when he spoke to his players at the break. And it ultimately helped to deliver the goods.

They emerged with fire and managed to draw level inside seven blistering minutes.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

First Cameron John slotted home superbly from a Josh Sims cutback. Then Reece James produced a deft flick from a brilliant chop over the top from Taylor Richards.

Richards made a major impression after his half time introduction, adding composure and drive to Rovers’ play.

And it helped ensure that while the game opened up, Rovers had the edge until after making it count when Ben Whiteman finished with confidence from the spot after Matt Smith was brought down by Kenny Dougal.

From a mountain to climb to the top of the peak, with time still to show determination and resolve to maintain the advantage in the face of the inevitable pressure from Blackpool.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The visitors could and maybe - given the direction of flow on handball offences - should have been awarded a late penalty when the ball seemed to hit Brad Halliday on the arm.

And a share of the spoils may have been the most just - but that is adding another level to the attempt to draw broad conclusions.

On the most basic of levels, Rovers secured a win over the division’s form side, having recovered from going two goals down.

It took their tally for the week to four points from two games against top opposition, but in both they were off colour for at least half of the time.

Winning when not playing well is a cliched sign of success.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

But it must be said that Rovers will have to be considerably better if they are to deliver the consistency they will need to find that success.

And there are still so many layers to be picked over in such a topsy turvy, disappointing and delightful outing.

*

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.